Onkyo TX-RZ3100 vs Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Onkyo TX-RZ3100 vs Pioneer Elite SC-LX904, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-RZ3100 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 200/6, while the Elite SC-LX904 has a power of 140/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-RZ3100 it is 0.04%, but for the Elite SC-LX904 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-RZ3100 received the model AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite SC-LX904 is equipped with ES9026PRO 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-RZ3100 and Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Onkyo TX-RZ3100 works with Deezer, TIDAL, TuneIn Radio, but the Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora.

Video features

The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. The quality of 4K/60Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the TX-RZ3100 and the Elite SC-LX904. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite SC-LX904. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-RZ3100 has 8/2, and the Elite SC-LX904 has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the Elite SC-LX904. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The TX-RZ3100 has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the Elite SC-LX904, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Ability to create 3 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.